It’s fascinating how some vehicles can be largely unloved when they are shiny and new, but become a “must-have” item years later. The First Generation Bronco is a perfect example of this, with spotless examples currently commanding very healthy prices in the classic market. This 1967 Bronco isn’t pristine, but its lack of significant rust makes it a promising restoration candidate. The seller has listed it here on eBay in Dallas, Texas. The bidding currently sits below the reserve at $2,550, with history suggesting that it will almost certainly climb before the hammer falls.

There’s quite a bit to unpack with this Bronco, and most of the news appears to be positive. The solitary engine bay shot seems to confirm that the Green paint cloaking its exterior isn’t the original shade, with evidence of what appears to be Rangoon Red peeking from beneath. Someone has cut the rear wheel arches to accommodate larger wheels and tires, but with lower quarter panels readily available and very affordable, returning the exterior to its factory form wouldn’t be complicated or expensive. That brings us to the subject of rust, something that the First Generation Bronco has developed a reputation for. There is a small area in one rocker, and the front inner fenders have also suffered steel penetration. However, that appears to be the extent of the problems, and like the quarter panels, new steel is easy to find. Both bumpers and a couple of trim pieces are missing, but the glass looks okay.

Another area of this Bronco that requires plenty of attention is its interior. It features aftermarket door trims, a radio/cassette player, and underdash gauges among its modifications. However, the shifter remains in its original location, which is a refreshing change when many owners move it from the column to the floor. It also features air conditioning, which potential buyers in warm locations will undoubtedly welcome. The back seat is missing, so it may require a search of the usual online auction sites to find another one. A complete retrim will be the only option, although with complete kits in the correct Parchment vinyl retailing for under $1,500, the expense is justified when you consider the potential value of this classic once restored.

Ford offered 1967 buyers two engine choices for their money, although an automatic transmission wouldn’t become available until 1973. It appears that this Bronco’s first owner chose the V8 option, but there seems to be some doubts as to whether this is the original 289ci motor or if it has been swapped out for a 302ci powerplant. If it is numbers-matching, the 289 delivered a healthy 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque, offering excellent performance in most circumstances. Whatever the truth, potential buyers should be able to consider this Bronco to be a turnkey proposition. The seller states that it runs and drives well, allowing somebody to enjoy it immediately while they plan its restoration.

Ford’s First Generation Bronco showed promise during its first production year, with 23,776 buyers taking one home. However, the tally fell to 14,230 the following year, and it would only top 20,000 four times between then and when the final examples rolled off the line in 1977. The largely unloved vehicle has since become a desirable classic, with prices exceeding $60,000 quite common for spotless examples. This Bronco needs work to achieve that standard, but it has strong bones and has avoided the worst of the rust problems that plague these vehicles. I believe that the bidding will climb considerably in the coming days, but what do you feel would be a fair price for this promising project candidate?